BELPRE - The Belpre Area Chamber of Commerce is taking reservations for its 75th annual dinner on Nov. 15.
The dinner will be held at St. Ambrose Catholic Church on Schoolhouse Road in Little Hocking with a social hour at 6 p.m. and the dinner at 6:30 p.m., said chamber executive director Karen Waller.
"The annual dinner is our annual evening of celebration," said chamber executive director Karen Waller. "It's when we take the time each year to recognize our businesses, volunteers and name the Belpre Area Citizen of the Year and Student of the Year."
The keynote speaker for this year's event is Parkersburg resident Chuck Martin, former ABC News Bureau chief, owner of KCLW-AM in Hamilton, Texas, and KBSS-FM in Booneville, Ark., and board member at Wood County Family Crisis Intervention Center's Domestic Violence Shelter. Martin is the owner of Martin Broadcasting Co.
Martin's remarks will inform dinner guests about his days when news was "simply news," entertain with stories of the United States presidents he has interviewed and describe some classic radio bloopers he has heard. His speech is expected to inspire guests to mentor youth and encourage them to set and actualize goals.
"This is not only a funny, entertaining and humorous talk, but informative as well," Martin said in a press release. "Trust me, you will not be bored."
Martin teaches classes at National College, business communications at the Career Center and at Washington State Community College's Network Alliance.
Martin has received several awards throughout the years, including 37 broadcast news and journalism recognitions, the 1999 Will Rogers Memorial Award, the George W. Bush Presidential Volunteer Service Award Gold level for 500 plus hours, Presidential Citation from the Ronald Reagan Driving Under the Influence Campaign; and the Houston "Elevation of Personal Dignity." Martin served as president of Texas Associated Press Broadcasters Association.
At the dinner, the chamber will recognize and award business and community accomplishments for the year, including the Years of Service, New Business of the Year, Citizen of the Year and Student of the Year.
The dinner costs $30 a person, tables are available and those interested in attending must reserve their seats by Nov. 8 by calling the chamber office at (740) 423-8934 or by email at info@belprechamber.com.
